Photography Class: Best Cameras for Beginners
Over the pat 2 years, I have been teaching an Introduction to Photography class for middle and high schoolers. One of the biggest questions parents typically ask is, “what is the best beginner camera for my child? what should their first new camera be for your class?”
I get it! Finding the best camera options for beginner photographers can get overwhelming! One of the biggest requirements for Introduction to Photography is making sure the camera you choose will have manual mode capabilities. New photographers will start in auto mode; however, as their level of experience grows, they will advance and need to start photographing in manual mode.
Manual controls will allow the student to achieve great results in manipulating light with their first camera. It will allow them to control their shutter speed, ISO, and f-stop. So without further ado, here is the list of 3 beginner cameras to consider for a beginners photography group as their first dslr digital camera body with a good value:
Elements of Photography assignment photographed by Caiden Cordero, 2nd year student in 9th grade. Photographed using Nikon Z5.
Mirrorless models are what a professional photographer is moving towards these days. At least, it's becoming a preference. The Nikon Z5 is perfect for an amateur photographer. It is compact and light weight. Its ease of use makes it perfect for a student to go at their own pace and learn the fundamentals of photography. It offers good image quality and manual capabilities to control shutter speed, ISO, and f-stop. Whether you are shooting in natural light or low lighting, this camera has a dynamic range to work with in different light situations. Mirrorless cameras are truly great dslr cameras.
1st Year Student to Introduction to Photography - Robert Van Voorst, 8th Grade, won 1st place in the middle school division at Tampa Covenant Homeschoolers Expo. Image Photographed with a Canon Rebel T7.
The Canon Rebel line in general is a great value. The student would have control of camera settings with manual controls. It is considered part of Canon's older models list but it still gets the job done. This camera has built-in Wi-Fi so if they wanted to share images quickly to their devices, they can. This camera would work wonderful in my Introduction to Photography class or any online classes that were offered.
3. Canon 7D
Element of Photography: lines showing movement by Isabella Cordero, 2nd year student in 11th grade. Photographed with a Canon 7D.
A Canon 7D can absolutely be a great camera for a beginner, even though it's older, because it offers features that help you learn photography while still giving you room to grow. Here's why: It's affordable now (but still powerful). Because it's not a new model anymore, you can get it at a great price while still getting pro-level features. It has an excellent autofocus system, fast shooting speed, it's weather-sealed built, its controls are clear, and big/bright optical viewfinder.
The best camera for beginners is going to need manual mode. Period! Students will have access to advanced techniques to reach advanced levels in their journey in Photography. Some of my past and current students have the cameras above. It's worth investing in a dslr because they will learn and be ready to be challenged quickly! I hope to see your child in one of my classes soon. I hope this list helps you get started as you prepare for Introduction to Photography.
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